CPT® Code 94013

1. Indications

The procedure coded as CPT® 94013 is indicated for the assessment of lung volumes in infants and children through 2 years of age. This testing is crucial for diagnosing and managing various respiratory conditions. The specific indications for performing this procedure include:

• Assessment of Respiratory Function: To evaluate lung function in infants and young children who may have respiratory distress or other pulmonary issues.
• Diagnosis of Lung Disorders: To assist in diagnosing conditions such as asthma, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, or other chronic lung diseases.
• Monitoring of Lung Health: To monitor lung volumes over time in patients with known respiratory conditions to assess treatment efficacy.

2. Procedure

The procedure for measuring lung volumes in infants and children under 2 years of age involves several critical steps to ensure accurate and reliable results. The following procedural steps are performed:

• Step 1: Preparation of the Patient - Prior to the test, the infant or child is evaluated to determine the need for sedation. A medication is administered to induce sleep, which is essential for the accuracy of the lung volume measurements, as young children cannot follow instructions for breathing maneuvers.
• Step 2: Setup of Spirometry Equipment - Once the patient is asleep, a spirometry device is prepared. This device includes a mouthpiece and tubing that connects to a machine designed to record and display lung volume data. Proper calibration and setup of the equipment are crucial for obtaining valid results.
• Step 3: Measurement of Functional Residual Capacity (FRC) - The first measurement taken is the functional residual capacity, which assesses the volume of air remaining in the lungs after a normal expiration. This measurement reflects the lung capacity when the respiratory muscles are fully relaxed.
• Step 4: Use of Chest Compression Jacket - For additional lung volume tests, the infant or child may be placed in a chest compression jacket. This jacket is designed to apply pressure to the chest, facilitating the expansion of the lungs to their maximum capacity.
• Step 5: Measurement of Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) - With the chest compression jacket in place, air is forced into the lungs, and the maximum amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled is measured. This step is critical for determining the forced vital capacity.
• Step 6: Calculation of Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV) - The expiratory reserve volume is calculated as the difference between the functional residual capacity and the residual volume, providing further insight into lung function.
• Step 7: Data Interpretation - After the measurements are completed, the results are displayed on a graph. The physician reviews and interprets these results, compiling them into a written report that outlines the findings and any necessary recommendations.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the lung volume measurement procedure, the infant or child is monitored until they awaken from sedation. Post-procedure care includes ensuring the patient is stable and observing for any adverse reactions to the sedation. The physician will review the test results and provide a detailed report, which may include recommendations for further evaluation or treatment based on the findings. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results with the parents or guardians and to plan any necessary interventions or additional testing.